Skywarn
Training Classes
People are required to pre-register for all classes. This
is necessary to control class size and provide the proper amount of handouts.
Classes have a limited amount of space. If you register for a class and
can not make it, please notify us so we can make your spot available to
someone else. Upcoming classes are announced on this page and on NOAA Weather
Radio. All training classes and Skywarn membership are free. Registration
procedures are listed below.
LOOK --> Descriptions of all the
classes offered (click here)
UPCOMING
SKYWARN™ CLASSES
| Class |
Date
Time |
Location |
Contact |
| Tropical |
Jun. 3
7:00PM |
Loudoun Co. Fire-Rescue Training Center
Auditorium 2
16600 Courage Ct.
Leesburg, VA 20175 |
Robert Hiltner
robert.hiltner@loudoun.gov
703-737-8706 |
Due to security concerns following
9-11, Skywarn Basics 1 classes will not be offered at the NWS Sterling facility.
Therefore, NWS Sterling Office is looking for organizations to host Skywarn
training. We need a free site that can accommodate up to at least
40 people and have the ability for audio visual equipment. We will
open the training class up to the public and will help advertise the class.
We need at least 20 people registered to hold the class, but ideally would
like to have over 30. If you can help with such arrangements, please
e-mail: Nikole.winstead.listemaa@noaa.gov
BASICS
I SKYWARN™ CLASS
This class is essential for becoming a Skywarn Spotter. It is a 3-hour
class that covers the basics of how Skywarn and the National Weather Service
operate, what you need to report and how, and how to spot severe thunderstorms
and tornadoes. This class is a pre-requisite for all other classes.
Net Control Class
This is an optional 2 hour class that is offered on an as need basis. This class
is for amateur radio operators. Its focus is on procedures and etiquette when
being skywarn net control. You must have taken Basic I to attend.
BASICS
II SKYWARN™ CLASS
This class is an optional sequel to the Basics I class. It is 2 1/2 hours
long. It is good for spotters who need a refresher or feel they what additional
information and training. It reviews the basic spotting techniques and
covers more information about thunderstorms and Doppler radar. You must
have taken Basics 1 to attend this class
FLOOD/FLASH
FLOOD SKYWARN™ CLASS
This is an optional 2 1/2 hour class. It focuses on various types of flooding
and how the develop and affect the Mid-Atlantic region. Flood history,
area impacts, preparedness tips and the role of SKYWARN™ are also discussed.
HURRICANE
CLASS
This is an optional 2 1/2 hour class that is offered seasonally (June-September).
Its focus is Mid-Atlantic hurricanes, their frequency and history, outlook
for the season, how hurricanes form, categories, their names, how to be
prepared, and how Skywarn operates. You must have taken Basics 1 to attend
this class!
WINTER
STORM CLASS
This is an optional 2 1/2 hour class that is offered seasonally (November
- January). Its focus is on the Mid-Atlantic snow storms and nor'easters.
It looks at the frequency and history of the storms, how they form and
the difficulties in forecasting them, how to be prepared, how to measure
snow and ice, and how skywarn operates during a winter event. You must
have taken Basics I to attend.
| 
weather.gov 
